[James Matthew Najera]

General Discussion Thread 07.07.2025​

Hey GrayViners!

We know today’s a heavy one. With the news from Texas still on everyone’s minds, we wanted to create a space to share something a little more personal—and a lot more heart.

Today’s question: How have you bounced back from a major loss in life?

Image credit: Unsplash/Saulo Meza

Maybe it was the passing of someone you loved. Maybe it was a job, a dream, or even just a really tough season that knocked the wind out of you. Whatever it was—we want to hear what helped you move forward.

Whether it was faith, family, a new hobby, or just sheer stubbornness (hey, no shame in that game!), your story might be the exact encouragement someone else needs today. So take a minute, grab a cup of something warm, and share what got you through.

As always, we’re listening—and grateful for you.

Sending love,
Blue

 

[snoopereva]

My closest immediate family member/only younger sister living nearby has chosen to live in nearby nursing home which does not allow these two senior citizen sisters the chance to share so many community activities together as we have for so many previous years together in our lifetime...just sad!

 

[bobbibonn]

10 years ago, I lost my husband of 38 years, very unexpectedly..his choice. Outside of my son and his family, I had no close friends here and my job had ended a month before. I was able to get connected through a local church, and not only navigated through my grief, but made many lasting friends, got a part time job, and have a very busy active life. I also discovered wonderful neighbors who have been extremely helpful. I lost something precious 10 years ago, but God has given me so much more than I ever expected.

 

[Pattij50]

A lot of prayers always

 

[NIBOR0]

I lost my best friend when she was 56 years old. She had had a stroke in her sleep and when her husband became worried because she hadn't woke up, went into the bedroom to find her dead. This was one of those friends who never judged, knew you better than you knew yourself, was there at 3 a.m. when I was having a crisis moment (I had caught my husband with someone else) and was just plain there for me. We had been college roomates and couldn't have been more different. We had known each other for around 35 years when she passed. I think of her daily. I only have a couple of friends that I"m not really that close to so it's been a huge loss in my life.

 

[tennis]

After over 42 yrs of marriage, my husband passed away . He was my everything, next to my children. He has been gone 12 yrs. I still cry and miss him so much, as God had always been a constant in our life, that is what has gotten me through this. Now fighting cancer, God is there for me and carrying me through. I know that this will come out alright, because God again is beside me.

 

[JuliaMOlive]

I have lost a grandson, my father, my mother and last year my sister. I believe they’re all in a better place . No more pain in their lives either. I believe we’re sad because we missed them . But I’m planning seeing them again.

 

[TriciaR]

My closest immediate family member/only younger sister living nearby has chosen to live in nearby nursing home which does not allow these two senior citizen sisters the chance to share so many community activities together as we have for so many previous years together in our lifetime...just sad!

That truly does sound heartbreaking. I'm so sorry you're going through this @snoopereva — it must be such a tough adjustment after sharing so many meaningful moments and activities together over the years. Thank you for opening up with us. Do you still get to visit your sister often? Or have you found any other ways to stay connected and continue sharing those special moments, even in small ways? Please know, you're not alone in this community. We're here to listen, anytime you'd like to talk.

 

[TriciaR]

10 years ago, I lost my husband of 38 years, very unexpectedly..his choice. Outside of my son and his family, I had no close friends here and my job had ended a month before. I was able to get connected through a local church, and not only navigated through my grief, but made many lasting friends, got a part time job, and have a very busy active life. I also discovered wonderful neighbors who have been extremely helpful. I lost something precious 10 years ago, but God has given me so much more than I ever expected.

Thank you so much for sharing something so deeply personal @bobbibonn . I can only imagine how painful and disorienting that time must have been. It’s truly inspiring to hear how you found strength through community, faith, and connection — and how those blessings helped you build a fulfilling life again. It sounds like your neighbors, church, and new friendships have made such a difference. Are there any particular activities or moments from this new chapter that bring you the most joy these days?

 

[TriciaR]

A lot of prayers always

Sometimes, it's those quiet moments of prayer that help hold us together through the hardest times. Thank you for sharing that @Pattij50 — it's a simple but powerful reminder of the strength faith can bring. Has there been a particular prayer, verse, or practice that’s brought you the most comfort during difficult times?

 

[TriciaR]

I lost my best friend when she was 56 years old. She had had a stroke in her sleep and when her husband became worried because she hadn't woke up, went into the bedroom to find her dead. This was one of those friends who never judged, knew you better than you knew yourself, was there at 3 a.m. when I was having a crisis moment (I had caught my husband with someone else) and was just plain there for me. We had been college roomates and couldn't have been more different. We had known each other for around 35 years when she passed. I think of her daily. I only have a couple of friends that I"m not really that close to so it's been a huge loss in my life.

I'm so sorry for the loss of your best friend @NIBOR0 — she sounds like a truly remarkable person, the kind of friend who’s more like family. Losing someone who was such a constant and caring presence in your life leaves a space that’s impossible to fill. Thank you for honoring her memory by sharing a bit of her story with us. Do you find there are certain things — maybe a song, a place, or a memory — that bring her especially close to your heart these days?

 

[TriciaR]

After over 42 yrs of marriage, my husband passed away . He was my everything, next to my children. He has been gone 12 yrs. I still cry and miss him so much, as God had always been a constant in our life, that is what has gotten me through this. Now fighting cancer, God is there for me and carrying me through. I know that this will come out alright, because God again is beside me.

Your love and devotion come through so clearly — 42 years together is a beautiful testament to a life shared deeply. I’m so sorry for your loss, and now, for the health challenges you’re facing @tennis . It’s incredibly moving to hear how your faith continues to carry you through. Are there any verses, prayers, or even small daily rituals that bring you the most comfort right now as you face this next chapter?

 

[TriciaR]

I have lost a grandson, my father, my mother and last year my sister. I believe they’re all in a better place . No more pain in their lives either. I believe we’re sad because we missed them . But I’m planning seeing them again.

I’m so sorry for all the losses you've had to bear @JuliaMOlive — losing a grandson, parents, and a sister is an incredible amount of heartache. Your faith and hope in seeing them again is truly comforting, and I admire the strength in your outlook. You're right — we grieve because we love, and we miss them dearly. Are there any special memories or traditions you hold onto that help you feel close to them in everyday life?

 

[Gibb]

Only by the Grace of God, plenty of prayers

 

[Hazeleyes]

Frustrating to have to stick to a diet and not have so many foods that you love.
This is the second time in my life I had to change my diet. In 2009 I had a blood clot in my leg. I had to watch eating food with vitamin k, no caffeine, no sugar, no garlic, no parsley. Thankfully it was only for a year and a day. (No pun intended)
2001 high cholesterol
Now since 2021 I have kidney disease.. Being mindful of what foods I eat and trying to keep the protein count correct for the day is a struggle.
I am happy to say that according to my lab work my cholesterol count is normal (total cholesterol 183) My other numbers look better than they have been but will find out from nephrologist on Thursday.
Maybe I finally figured out the correct portion amounts of what I can eat. Meats allowed only chicken, turkey and fish. ( no shell fish)
I miss lamb, crabs, lobster and clams